Extremely Rare Molded Redware Pitcher, Levi Coates, Chester County, PA, Quaker Abolitionist Potter

Summer 2024 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 202

Price Realized: $1,440.00

($1,200 hammer, plus 20% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: The American ceramics market frequently changes, often dramatically. Additionally, small nuances of color, condition, shape, etc. can mean huge differences in price. If you're interested in having us sell a similar item for you, please contact us here.

Summer 2024 Auction Catalog

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Extremely Rare Molded Redware Hunt Scene Pitcher with Copper Glaze, attributed to Levi Coates, Chester County, PA, early to mid 19th century, thinly-molded, oval-bodied pitcher with angular handle and pronounced spout, decorated with a relief scene depicting a man with dog, horses, and a tree beside a fence on one side, and dogs taking down a fox with trees in the background on the opposing side. Classical drape motif to collar. Surface covered in a lead and copper glaze. The first example of Levi Coates pottery that we have offered, this work is documented in Arthur James's The Potters and Potteries of Chester County, Pennsylvania. James describes Coates as "another representative [along with members of the Vickers family] of Chester County's trilogy embracing roles of Quaker, Potter, and Abolitionist ... . On April 12 1809, he married Mary Truman and established a home which soon became an active station on the Underground Railroad as well as a center of farming and potting activities. 'Levi Coates Pottery' is listed on Painter & Bowen's 1847 Map of Chester County. He was a 'Bluebird Potter,' following the pursuit only at such times as local needs demanded." (James, pp. 51-52) A petite-sized and beautifully-glazed work, historically linked to the cause of freedom. Literature: Illustrated in James, pg. 52. For more information of Coates, see James pp. 51-53. Two chips to spout. A 3" crack on side of pitcher, descending from a minor chip. Some light staining. H 5 1/8".